Steve Dolunt, Assistant Chief in the Detroit Police Department, says it like it is.
It is something that has gotten him in trouble. It is something that has also endeared him in the hearts of Detroiters.
He has yelled on camera after senseless violence. He has cried at the deaths of innocent children. He has called for change. He has taken on investigations that hurt his career.
“I didn’t kiss any butts to get here,” said Dolunt as he sat in his office in the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters.
It is his last day as assistant chief. He is retiring after 31 years of service.
He reflected on his career. He has not only been honest when talking about crimes to the public. He has been honest behind closed doors.
While working in internal affairs during the Kwame Kilpatrick administration he received a memo about misconduct by officers protecting the mayor. The investigation that followed would eventually lead to allegations against Kilpatrick, rumors of the infamous never confirmed Manoogian Mansion party, and the mayor’s downfall.
Dolunt was demoted and transferred numerous times during that time period.
“At the time it took a toll on my family,” says Dolunt.
None the less, he would do it again if he had to do it all over. He says the right thing for his family’s comfort, wasn’t the ethical choice. They all sacrificed with integrity.
“Don’t do the right thing. Do what is right,” said Dolunt.
Today he is remembering the funny calls.
“There is the time the dispatcher said there is a horse running down Woodward. Someone asked, what color? What are you, a moron? If there is a horse on Woodward, I am pretty sure that is the one you are looking for,” recalled Dolunt.
He is remembering the hard times, losing friends and officers, such as Brian Huff.
“I am still messed up,” said Dolunt.
As for what he will miss most about the job? It is simple: The officers of the Detroit Police Department.
“They put their lives on the line every day for total strangers. The officers,” said Dolunt when asked what he would miss most.
Tears then started flowing.
“Are you happy? You got the damn tears flowing. Damn kids.”
Dolunt says he has no immediate plans when it comes to what he will do in retirement.
